Which small SUV should I buy?
A reader is looking for a new car that isn’t too big and has easy access. Our expert has identified some of the best new small SUVs on sale.
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One of our readers is in need of help finding a new car with easy access and isn’t too big. Our expert identifies the best options.
The question
A friend with knee problems wants to move from her Ford Focus to a small SUV for greater ease of entry. Her budget is about $35,000 drive-away and she’s considering the Mitsubishi ASX, Toyota RAV4 and a Hyundai. She doesn’t want the SUV to be too big compared to her Focus.
Barry Tanner, email
Answer
The small SUV segment was nearly non-existent a decade ago — now there are about 25 models on sale for less than $40,000. Why? Many people, like your friend, have mobility problems and want easier access. The taller SUV body style allows this, they’re as affordable as many small hatchbacks and their styling is more in-vogue. I think Toyota’s RAV4, as good as it is, will be too big. Let’s look at small SUVs with comparable space to the Focus.
Choices
Kia Seltos Sport with safety pack, $30,490 drive-away
I’ve picked the Kia instead of Hyundai’s Kona as its looks are less polarising and it has a longer warranty (seven years against five) and impressive cabin space, front and rear. I reckon it’s easier to climb into than the Hyundai too. The Seltos has far more boot capacity: 433L versus the focus’s 316L. It looks classy and rides and handles superbly. The 110kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine suits this size SUV and returns a reasonable 6.8L/100km. Goodies include a massive 10.25-inch screen that mirrors your smartphone and safety kit includes advanced AEB, radar cruise control and lane keep assist. Next rung up is the Seltos Sport Plus with faux leather seats and more advanced safety gear. At $32,990, it’s more luxurious and still in budget. Servicing for three years comes to a pricey $1037.
Mitsubishi ASX LS 2WD, $30,240 drive-away
The ASX has been our best-selling small SUV for the past three years, thumping its rivals. How so when its basics are a decade old? It’s seemingly an ideal size — nearly medium SUV dimensions and with 393L boot — and it’s just had a modernising facelift. Anecdotally, its seat height is spot-on for those with dodgy knees and hips, though it doesn’t ride as well as the Seltos. The mid-spec LS has comprehensive safety kit, 18-inch alloys, LED lights, cruise control, smart key and eight-inch touchscreen. Seven-year warranty and two years’ free servicing is the current deal. It’s a bit old-feeling inside and thirst is 7.9L/100km.
Toyota CH-R 2WD, $31,990 drive-away
Something jazzier? The C-HR, already quite the looker, got a facelift late last year. It looks small from the outside yet is roomy inside, with classy finish. The coupe-esque design can make it claustrophobic for rear passengers and the boot capacity is just 377L. Its 1.2-litre turbo is fit for purpose, returns 6.4L/100km but needs premium 95 fuel. Servicing is cheap at $600 for three years. You get an eight-inch screen with CarPlay/Android Auto, satnav, 17-inch alloys and excellent safety kit. It’s cracking fun to drive, too.
Wildcard
Ford Focus Active, $33,827 drive-away
Still love the Focus? Last year, Ford introduced its Active version of the hatch, with SUV-like plastic wheel arch guards and 34mm higher ride for easier access. Its three-cylinder turbo is perky, there is plenty of safety kit and the cabin’s roomy if a tad bland. The ride is comfier than a normal Focus without losing its lovely handling and balance. Thirst of 6.4L/100km is OK but $1012 for three years’ servicing is steep.
Verdict
The Focus Active is compelling — it’s spot-on for those not wanting an SUV but seeking the extra ride height — but it’s the priciest of this group. Otherwise, pick the all-round excellent Kia Seltos and live with the servicing cost.
Originally published as Which small SUV should I buy?
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